Pre-1500 And Post 1500 History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Pre-1500 And Post 1500 History - Essay Example History is paramount in learning about our obligation and responsibilities as global citizens. The people who lived in the pre-1500 possess the same humanness we have today and thus their hopes, egos, as well as dreams we still have them today. Therefore, through the study of those who lived before us enable us gain understanding and know their mistakes and how to rectify them for our own good? It is because people remain the same, although technology may change. The memory of the past is the key to our identity. For example, in 1492, Columbus led the invasion of America where he found a new land (Tignor, 2011). This history gives us an account of how America was founded and makes the citizens develop a sense of identity. This is a historical event that has significance in our today global citizenship. The knowledge acquired helps us establish a clear understanding of the American history and the changes that has been realized in today’s America. Moreover, the global history h as enabled us gain knowledge that help in shaping the present. Migration Migration is another aspect of understanding global citizenship reflecting on migration that took place before 1500 especially in Europe. For example, the knowledge of the Europe invasion starting 800 BC to 400 BC is useful in our modern world as global citizens.

Historical experience leader was not trusted Essay Example for Free

Historical experience leader was not trusted Essay Terry finished from college as an engineer with excellent grades. He got jobs with several companies within the space of two years after graduation. He decided to change job because of harsh environment conditions of the location of the companies. After staying at home for three months, he got another job with a university as an IT assistant, in charge of networking and system repairs. He was enjoying himself in this company: a young university graduate with bright future. He was very dedicated to the discharge of duties. Because of dedication to duty, he was loved by all and sundry. He actually also had good human relationships. During his stay in the company, he had three major plans: settle down for a family with his girl-friend. He wanted to continue his education by bagging a postgraduate degree in Information and communication technology. He also had a business plan to accomplish that would be open the door for his self-employment and own his company. Because of these, he was ready to get as much experience as possible. He was poised to learn as mush as would come his way. And he did. However, he started developing problems with his Unit director who felt he was outshining him in the Unit. They argued on several occasions about they had to do on network problems affecting the University Internet access. At last, he got a sack letter. He left the company. He did not particularly see the sack as a major problem: it was an opportunity for him to actually work on his plans. So, he set forth. He drew up his business plan: got fund from the savings and investments he had made while gainfully employed, from friends and family members. He got a vantage position for his IT Company that provides information and services on Website designs, PC sales and repairs, Internet access and Computer training. He got started with a number of hardworking staff. He made them understand that since the business is new, they had to see themselves as part of a team that must work hard to see that customers are satisfied, their requirements met and services delivered effectively. These workers understood and dedicated their time and energy to the progress of the Company. They trusted his knowledge and managerial skills. They were also ready to make sacrifices for the Company. I got employed into the company as a Customer Service agent in charge of customer relations and keeping a journal of order delivery status. I noticed that Terry had a problem with his girlfriend and he had to break up. This affected his mood and outlook to work in the office. During this time, he lost his vigor and strength. We got talking about many things, including our personal lives. He was articulate and intelligent. But he could not keep to schedule nor meet appointments. A lot of customers and some members of staff complained on this. He promised to change. But he did not. Apart from this, he refused to pay salaries for the first two months. This was not surprise to us as we knew that the Company was getting up and we understood that a lot of money had to go into the running of a new company. After the third month, we met to discuss why salaries had not been paid. The Accounting unit reported that the Company could pay its workers. Against his will, they also told those present that some people have been selectively paid. This got the ‘unpaid’ workers annoyed and seriously vexed. We demanded for an explanation form the Boss. He was ready, as usual to give excuse and sweet-tongued us into this same old story: the Company is just catching up, and soon, all will be well. He supported his point with facts and figures convincing those paid are on special contract. He also used the opportunity to chastise workers who had not been working, especially those he had proposed to and they refused his advances. It later dawned on us that the company leader was making advances to many female workers in the office; those who agreed got paid and those who did not were chastised for their disobedience and were also not paid salaries. I was disappointed to come to this conclusion. I was learning a lot on the job, so I did not want to leave. After five months of endurance, we were paid for three months. I make proposal to opt out of the company because the situation grew worse daily. I called him several times to advise him but he would tell me I was young and had limited experience. Complaints by staff intensified daily. He sacked some, and others opted out willingly . The Situation became embarrassing: virtually everybody in the company knew about the ordeal. After series of threats, all salaries were paid. By then, he had lost a lot of resourceful workers. I also left the Company but not without lessons: little disappointments add up to big distrust. Trust is a major tool that makes communication effective. Anyone that loses this all-important trait is building a castle on sand, it would not last. It’s only a matter of time: it would fall. The company no longer exists. It has now been closed down. Terry had to get a paid job to pay his debts.

Macbeth as an Archetype of the Devil :: essays research papers

In the tragic play of Macbeth, Shakespeare creates a protagonist that resembles the archetype of the devil. With Satan, leader of the forces of evil, and the Dragon, or rebel against God, from the Bible and John Milton's epic allegory Paradise Lost, these roles fit as archetypes for the protagonist, Macbeth. There is also significant ways in which Shakespeare contrasted his protagonist against the Devil. Macbeth and Satan are characterized for being great and powerful, above the normal man or angel. 'For brave Macbeth ' well he deserves that name Disdaining Fortune, with his brandished steel? from Macbeth (I, ii, 16-17).The two character relates to each other for their loyalty and trust, which acknowledged them with great honor and power to make changes, whether good or bad. 'Say first for Heaven hides nothing from thy view Nor the deep Tract of Hell say first what cause Mov'd our Grand Parents in that happy state, Favour'd of heav'n so highly ' He trusted to have equal'd the most High' (I, 27-40). Once given a high position, they begin to desire more power, to become God, to become King. 'I will ascend above the heights of the Clouds, I will be like the most High' (Isaiah, 14: 14). The devil, seen as the Dragon, who rebels against God, betrays God and fights against those who goes any challengers. 'And there appeared another wonder in Heaven, and behold a great red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.' (Revelation, 12: 3) 'And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon fought his angels,' (Revelation, 12: 7). Macbeth, does the same thing as the dragon, he rebels against the king, and tries to kill anyone who can get in his way. ?With his surcease, success that but his blow Might be the be ? all and the end ? all here ? Bloody instructions, which, being taught, return To plague th? inventor, this even ? handed justice.? From Macbeth (I, vii, 4-10) Shakespeare cleverly added incomparable differences in his protagonist and the Devil. The characters may desire the same thing, but have alternative ways of doing things. For example, Satan is the leader of forces of evil, which means he is the one who has tempted others into following him. ?Had cast him out of heav?n, with all his Host Of Rebel Angels, by whose aid aspiring To set himself in Glory above his Peers ?

Respiratory Diseases :: Nursing

Respiratory Diseases   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Respiration is the process of taking in and using oxygen. There are three different phases of respiration: external respiration, internal respiration, and cellular respiration. External respiration is the intake of oxygen from the environment and the release of carbon dioxide. In internal respiration, oxygen is carried to the cells and carbon dioxide is carried away from the cells. In cellular respiration, oxygen is used in chemical reactions within the cells. Some Diseases of the respiratory system are: bronchial asthma, the common cold, and diphtheria. Bronchial asthma is a disease in which the bronchial passages are made smaller and swelling of the mucous lining causes blockage of breathing, usually due to dust, animal fur or feathers, or pollen. Many people have asthma which is caused by allergies, called extrinsic asthma, usually suffer from hay fever. Non allergic asthma, which adults usually have, is called intrinsic asthma. Intrinsic asthma is usually caused by respiratory infections and emotional upsets. A typical asthma attack begins with coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some people have dry coughing as the only symptom. Attacks usually last only a couple hours. An attack may happen again in hours to even years after the first attack. Asthma attacks can be treated and prevented by the use of drugs. Albuterol or terbutaline, which can bring relief within minutes, is the usual treatment. The common cold is another disease of the respiratory system. The cold affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. It causes nasal congestion, sore throat, and coughing. A cold usually lasts up to an average of seven days. There is no known cure for the common cold yet. Diphtheria is another respiratory disease that, most of the time, affects

Motivation & Leadership Journal Assignment

Journal Assignment What kind of work do you do? Subject is part owner to a computer T1/T2 provider. How long have you been doing it? Subject has being working there for 17 years. Can you describe a typical work day? Subject states that she is on the board and that she overlooks board’s requirements, check incoming and outgoing contracts, mediator, and she sets up all the rules and regulations for the cooperation. Why did you end up doing this work? What kind of person often does this sort of work? (And would they consider themselves typical? Subject stated that she wanted to do this because she wanted to start her own business so that they could help financially stabilize friends, family members, and partners. The sort of person who often does this sort of work is an A typical person who is controlling and strives to have more out of life than what is typical. What do you like about this work? Subject states that she likes the diversity which is incorporated through dealing wi th other companies and also the staff at the company. What is difficult about this work?The difficulty is how people bond to easily which brings their personal life into their work life and how they are not able to separate friendship and work relationship. This open doors to issues like sexual harassment, misconduct, and theft. How do (customers, others in the company†¦ ) treat you? What do they think about the job you do? [Adapt this question to fit your particular interview–try to get at how they think they are treated based on their work. ] Subject states that others are afraid of her and extremely intimidated. Subject states that they do not want the job that she does but they enjoy working for the company.How does being a (fill in the blank with a salient cultural category: man, older person, African-American, 20-something, etc. ) play into the work you do? Subject states that initially there were barrier because of the stuffy suits that could not with having a wom an in charge. There was open defiance, rudeness, and vulgarity. Subject states that she fired member’s board due to their insubordination. Has this work changed the way you think about yourself, about the world? Subject states that she has the ability to separate her work life and personal life.Subject states that she is now a cold, calculating, malicious, and deviant individual due to the desire to have more money and more business for the company as whole. Subject states that personally she is a caring, loving individual but as far as the world goes she believes that there are too many lazy individuals that don’t want to take responsibility for ensuring that task are completed. Subject feels that everyone wants a handout and does not want to earn their livelihood. What are some cultural values that are important to you (can be family, work, or interpersonal)?Do you think these are similar to or different from mainstream American culture? Please explain your ideas. Su bject states that the business world is so much more complicated and unsympathetic to race, religion, politics, and sexuality. Subject states that they really don’t care about cultural values as long as you can perform your job. She also stated that in the business world they are aesthetic creatures who use whatever means necessary to get to the next level. She believes that this is very different from mainstream American culture, almost to the point of being anti-social.What do you like best about American culture? What do you like least? (Even if the person is American, they will have an opinion about this question that gives you some insight about how they view things from their perspective. ) Subjects like the fact that the American culture has a huge melting pot of candidates who are brilliant and talented in the profession that they choose. Due to this fact when the company is in need of candidates with a specific talent it is easier to find a candidate who fits the mol d for that position. AnalysisThink about your interview, the person, and their work. Please consider these questions as you write your journal assignment: What aspects of this person's work determine or indicate their status relative to others? The subjects work environment is one which a wealth of knowledge is extremely necessary in order to be successful. The subject is in the process of completing 4 doctorate degrees. Due to the fact that she is head of the board of directors she is looked up to by her subordinates and is expected to be knowledgeable in all areas of the company.She is a bit anti-social yet still remains professional and approachable to the lowest ranking individual at the company. What are some of the connections between this person's work experience and gender, race, age, and /or ethnicity (etc. )? The actual subject was of Cherokee Indian heritage and this heritage seemed to be at the center of how the subject intertwines her work and still remains true to her culture and tribe. Most of the subject’s knowledge is in large part of how she was raised on the reservation coupled with her age which helps to emphasize the important of maturity when making sound decisions.What kinds of attitudes, values, and behaviors does this person's work culture encourage? The attitudes, values, and behaviors that are displayed at their work culture is that of an air of self-motivation. The individual employee is held accountable for their own success or failure. Excuses are unacceptable. Their also seems to be a nonchalant attitude about their employees values. From what I gleaned from the interview what you believe in does not matter to the employee as long as you are doing your job to the best of your ability.What attitudes and values, held by this person, were similar to your own, and which were different? The attitudes and values of the subject were much in line with mine. The subject believes in receiving reward for hard work done and if you do not do the work you do not receive compensation. I did not like the fact that the subject refused to consider the cultural needs of the employee. I believe this may cause problems for them later on down the line. From this interview, what can give us insight into communicating across cultures or across work cultures?In my opinion communicating across cultures or work cultures takes a combined effort. Everyone in the company has to be open to the idea of using their talents which may have manifested due to elements from that individuals culture. Communication is not a one-sided instrument. In order for it to be effective the employer has to take steps to ensure that there are open lines of communication no matter what an employee’s background may be. In the end I believe that organizations only conform to the idea of culture because they are forced to.

Women in Shakespeares Richard III

Women in Shakespeares Richard III In his play, Richard III, Shakespeare draws on historical facts about several historical women to tell his story. Their emotional reactions reinforce that Richard the villain is the logical conclusion of many years of intrafamily conflict and family politics. The Wars of the Roses were about two branches of the Plantagenet family and a few other closely-related families fighting each other, often to the death. In the Play These women have lost husbands, sons, fathers, or will by the end of the play. Most have been pawns in the marriage game, but nearly all of them who are depicted have had some direct influence on the politics. Margaret (Margaret of Anjou) led armies. Queen Elizabeth (Elizabeth Woodville) promoted her own familys fortunes, making her responsible for the enmity she earned. The Duchess of York (Cecily Neville) and her brother (Warwick, the Kingmaker) were angry enough when Elizabeth married Edward that Warwick changed his support to Henry VI, and the Duchess left court and had little contact with her son, Edward, before his death. Anne Nevilles marriages linked her first with the Lancastrian heir apparent and then with a Yorkist heir. Even little Elizabeth (Elizabeth of York) by her very existence holds power: once her brothers, the Princes in the Tower, are dispatched, the king who marries her has locked up a tighter claim on the crown, though Richard has declared Elizabeth Woodvilles marriage to Edward IV invalid and therefore Elizabeth of York illegitimate. Is History More Interesting Than the Play? But the histories of these women are much more interesting than even the stories that Shakespeare tells. Richard III is in many ways a propaganda piece, justifying the takeover by the Tudor/Stuart dynasty, still in power in Shakespeares England, and at the same time pointing out the dangers of fighting among the royal family. So Shakespeare compresses time, attributes motivations, depicts as facts some incidents that are matters of pure speculation, and exaggerates events and characterizations. Anne Neville Probably the most changed life story is that of Anne Neville. In Shakespeares drama she appears at the beginning at the funeral of her father-in-law (and Margaret of Anjous husband), Henry VI, shortly after her own husband, the Prince of Wales, has also been killed in a battle with Edwards forces. That would be the year 1471 in actual history. Historically, Anne marries Richard, Duke of Gloucester, the next year. They had a son, who was alive in 1483 when Edward IV died suddenly an death Shakespeare has follow quickly on Richards seduction of Anne, and has precede, rather than follow, her marriage to him. Richard and Annes son would be too difficult to explain in his changed timeline, so the son disappears in Shakespeares story. Margaret of Anjou Then theres Margaret of Anjous story: historically, she was actually already dead when Edward IV died. She had been imprisoned right after her husband and son were killed, and after that imprisonment was not at the English court to curse anyone. She was actually then ransomed by the King of France; she ended her life in France, in poverty. Cecily Neville The Duchess of York, Cecily Neville, not only wasnt the first to identify Richard as a villain, she probably worked with him to gain the throne. Wheres Margaret Beaufort? Why did Shakespeare leave out a very important woman,  Margaret Beaufort?  Henry VIIs mother spent most of Richard IIIs reign organizing opposition to Richard.  She was under house arrest for much of Richards reign, as a result of an early rebellion.  But perhaps Shakespeare didnt think it politic to remind the audience of the very important role of a woman in bringing the Tudors to power?

Biography of Edward Estlin Cummings

Biography of Edward Estlin Cummings Free Online Research Papers In Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1894, Edward Estlin Cummings was born into this world. Ever since Cummings was a young boy, he seemed to show a great interest in poetry in art; however, this form of poetry would be like none of that which we know today. He was raised by both of his parents. His father, a sociology professor at Harvard University whose name was also Edward, was always there for his son and tried to help him in any way that he could. Cummings’ mother’s name was Rebecca (Napierkowski 84). Neither of his two parents knew that someday their son would grow into one of the most well known and most respected writers and artists of his day. As Cummings matured into a young adult, he attended Harvard University from the year 1911 to 1915. He received his Bachelors Degree in 1915 and his Masters Degree in 1916. (Napierkowski 84). â€Å"In college he had followed the Imaginist principles for poetry laid down by Ezra Pound: to use the rhythms of common speech rather than metrical regularity, to strive for compression and precision.† (Gale 5) At the beginning of World War I, Cummings enlisted and joined the Norton-Harjes Ambulance Service in France. During his service, he wrote major poems that are famous to this day. Not long after being in the service, he was sent to a French internment camp for four months because of suspicion of treason. As serious as this was, Cummings found this funny and entertaining. While he was there, he wrote one of his most well known letters titled, â€Å"The Enormous Room.† (Napierkowski 85). Cumming’s father made use of his contacts involved in the government and negotiated the release of his son from the camp. When Cummings was out, he returned to New York and pursued painting, but he was soon drafted back into the war in 1918. Cummings spent one year at Camp Danvers in Massachusetts. While there he wrote prolifically. After he was out yet again, he had an affair with his friend Schofield Thayer’s wife, Elaine, with Thayer’s knowledge and permission. In 1919, Cumming’s daughter Nancy was born; however, she was given the last name of Thayer. After Thayer and his wife divorced, Cummings and Elaine married in 1924. They then legally adopted Nancy. Cummings and Elaine enjoyed traveling Europe widely. They alternatively lived in Paris and New York. E. E. Cummings was an expressionist. Expressionism emerged as a movement in painting in the nineteenth century and it reached its peak in the 1920’s. â€Å"He started his career as a poet and painter: he published his first poetry collection in, â€Å"Tulips and Chimneys.† (Napierkowski 85). Cumming’s poetry, like painting, uses symbols to express what is essentially unsayable. â€Å"These symbols yoke together opposites- the individual and the collective; the outside and the inside.† (Thomasen 155). Cummings attempted to reconcile contradictions and get at the truth. â€Å"Expressionists are interested in translating their subjunctive feelings and perceptions rather than realistically describing the empirical world.† (Thomasen 155). â€Å"He attempted to pierce the world, to get at the truth lying beneath it.† (Thomasen 155). He expressed ideas through new grammatical usage; he employed verbs as nouns, and other locutions as new linguistic creations. â€Å"Cumming’s early poems had nevertheless discovered an original way of describing chaotic immediacy of sensuous experience.† (Gale 5). His visually directed free verse shows an even greater variety of subject and mood. It ranges from children’s songs and romantic lyrics through antiwar satires and epigrammatic at looks on his contemporaries to realistic vignettes of life. Research Papers on Biography of Edward Estlin CummingsPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XAppeasement Policy Towards the Outbreak of World War 2Honest Iagos Truth through DeceptionAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 EuropeHip-Hop is ArtQuebec and CanadaNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceThe Masque of the Red Death Room meaningsMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever Product

The Meanings and Variations of Mother

The Meanings and Variations of Mother The Meanings and Variations of Mother The Meanings and Variations of Mother By Mark Nichol Mother derives from the Old English term modor, which is cognate with the Latin word mater and the Greek word meter. (From the Latin term such words as maternal and maternity are derived.) The term refers not only to a female parent but also to a woman in authority, such as the head of a women’s religious community; it was also long employed as a respectful term of address for an elderly woman (as in â€Å"Mother Goose†), though this use is almost obsolete. It may also apply to an origin, precursor, or source, as in the expression â€Å"Necessity is the mother of invention.† A stepmother is a woman who marries one of one’s parents, and a mother-in-law is the mother of one’s spouse. Motherly describes maternal behavior, and motherlike alludes to a resemblance to the qualities of a mother. Motherhood describes the quality or state of being a mother. The verb mother pertains to the act of producing biological or figurative offspring. Motherland describes one’s home country, although the term is most prevalent in Russia and adjacent nations as well as some in the Near East and seldom used elsewhere. Mother Nature is the maternal personification of nature as the source of all that exists in the natural world. Mother also appears in a compound word ending with an obscene term; in this form and by itself it can be, depending on context, a mild epithet or an extreme insult. Open compounds that include the term mother include â€Å"earth mother† (meaning â€Å"a maternal figure†) â€Å"mother cell† (â€Å"a cell in an organism that produces usually different types of cells†), â€Å"mother hen† (â€Å"an overly protective person†), â€Å"mother lode† (â€Å"a primary mineral lode or vein† or â€Å"a primary source or supply†), â€Å"mother wit† (â€Å"natural intelligence or wit†), and â€Å"mother ship† (â€Å"a ship that serves smaller vessels†). â€Å"Refrigerator mother,† a label once applied to cold, distant, unmaternal mothers, was coined as part of a since-rejected theory for the cause of autism. A stage mother, meanwhile, is one who pressures a child to participate in the performing arts and demands special treatment for him or her; the term is derogatory, with the implication that a she is living vicariously through the child. Compounds employing the informal variant mom include â€Å"helicopter mom,† which describes an overly protective mother, as well as â€Å"soccer mom,† a sometimes pejorative term for a specific demographic- a suburban mother who pushes her children to participate in extracurricular activities such as youth soccer leagues- and the related phrase â€Å"hockey mom,† which pertains to inhabitants of geographic regions where ice hockey is prevalent. Expressions that use the term mother follow: a face only a mother could love: said of an unattractive person at (one’s) mother’s knee: alluding to learning something as a child every mother’s son: an evocative way of saying â€Å"everyone† everybody/everyone and (one’s) mother: a hyperbolic expression referring to a crowd the mother of all (blank): a hyperbolic reference to the best or greatest of a type of thing swear/swore on (one’s) mother’s grave: a hyperbolic reference to a solemn confirmation that one is telling the truth because of the association with the sanctity of a parent’s gravesite tied to (one’s) mother’s apron strings: said of a man who has not asserted his independence from his mother Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Bare or Bear With Me?5 Brainstorming Strategies for Writers20 Classic Novels You Can Read in One Sitting

Zoology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Zoology - Essay Example This includes a study of not only a whole organism, but also the molecular of the organism, its life cycle, its behavior, classification, distribution as well as population studies. Although humans are also under the classification of animals, their study goes beyond zoology. This is because they are unique and can be defined beyond zoological terms to spiritual, moral, social, and psychological. Since zoology covers a wide field, it is divided into a variety of sub-disciplines. There is, however, not any professional civilization that can cover the entire disciplines of zoology. For this reason, societies are found in terms of the diverse taxons such as mammals, snakes, birds, fish, and wildlife, among others. This paper shall provide a summary of a New York Times article and show its similarities and differences from an actual science paper. Skulls Engineered for Hard Knocks is a New York Times article that describes a Sulawesi wild pig’s skull. According to the article, the braincase of a Sulawesi wild pig skull is usually firmly built and well engineered. Alan Dudley is a scientist from Coventry who has carried out an intense study of animal skulls. He has worked on a variety of these from the great hippopotamus skull to the most delicate and tiniest tissue-like wren skull. His collection has been found to be the most comprehensive and finest ever known to scientists. Many skulls of a variety of creatures such as woodpecker and the ram that do violent things using their heads are also included in his work. These two creatures have been found to have dense skulls, more so in the area referred to as the braincase. In addition to this, their braincases are smooth from inside.

Ethics Final Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ethics Final - Essay Example When considering how we â€Å"value† life, and how that valuation affects the moral implications of the issues of abortion and euthanasia, we must also consider the quality and stage of life. And with animal rights, while they are inarguably alive, we must define what â€Å"types† of life should deserve specific rights, even if they cannot perceive them. There is an obvious and inherent difference, for most people, in how they value the life of an ant and a human, yet both are alive. So the difficulty, in general, comes in being able to define the concomitant facets of life which â€Å"deserve† rights. Opposite the spectrum of humans might be bacteria. We have living bacteria covering our body, most of which mind their own business and cause us no harm. Yet, we often wash our bodies and are hands in a veritable genocide of these innocent microbes without a second thought. Self-awareness, foresight and planning, the ability to feel pain, the potential of that life to survive and other advanced cognitive and physiological capacities are often important deciding factors in the moral implications of abortion, euthanasia and animal rights. A important knowledge of biology is required to detect, understand, and analyze these aspects. In both abortion and euthanasia, human lives are taken. However, euthanasia in humans is often voluntary, though it may not always be. In the case the voluntary euthanasia, the patient usually has a terminal illness and stands no obvious chances of survival. Their potential for further life is minimal and ultimately they often seek to end chronic pain and suffering. In abortion, however, the human life does not make the sovereign decision of its own life, and it would not be able to. In early abortions, the â€Å"fetus† may only be a number of cells clustered together, not so different from small cellular organisms we à ¢â‚¬Å"kill† everyday. However, these

Midterm Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 11

Midterm - Essay Example Additionally, porosity allows waste products out of the scaffold. Biodegradability: Since the intention of TE is to facilitate the body’s own cells to eventually replace the implanted tissue engineered construct over time, scaffold are not intended to be permanent implants. Thus scaffold need to be biodegradable to allow cells to generate their own extra-cellular matrix (Robert, 2013). The key consideration should be the source of the cells. Cells are categorized by their sources. For instance, autologous cells are obtained from the same individual to which they need to be re-implanted; Allogenic cells are got from the body of the donor of the same species while xenogenic cells are from individuals of another species (Robert, 2013). During cells selection, cells leading to fewest problems with rejection and pathogen transmission are preferred (mostly autologous). However, autologous cells cannot be obtained if the individual affected is elderly or has suffered severe burns. Biocompatibility: The initial consideration of any biomaterial for TE is biocompatibility; cells must stick, function normally and move onto the surface and finally through the biomaterial and begin proliferation process before producing new matrix. Biomaterial construct must show negligible immune reaction after implantation to prevent rejection by the body Injectability: TE tissues requires precisely designed combination of cells and specialized scaffold support system, Injectable biomaterials, especially those delivered in aqueous solution are ideal delivery vehicles for both the cells and bioactive factors (Robert, 2013). c) When designing a template for repairing a damaged bone, I will ensure that the template is biodegradable, bioresorbable, three-dimensional; which provides mechanical strength to the bone while at the same time providing a guide for regeneration of bone tissue (Robert. 2013). Thus the template

Value and Risk Management in Construction Case Study

Value and Risk Management in Construction - Case Study Example Resulting damage of hazards and threats, which became risks, might be to the physical condition and security of employees, to place, gear or an whole installation, to the surroundings, to products, or to monetary assets (Waring, 2001). For those belongings of risks to commerce, this account suggests you ways to avoid/transfer; reduce/control or luxury them in case they occur to your business. The report finished upon the leadership of Mr. Dennis, Master of Marketing. If we analyze then we come to know that naturally, a decision to invest 5M in a capital project involves a mainly irreversible obligation of resources that is generally subject to an important degree of risk. Such verdicts have far-reaching effect on a company's productivity and elasticity over the long term, thus necessitate that they be part of a cautiously developed strategy that is based on dependable appraisal and forecasting actions. In order to handle these risk managerial decisions, TW has to make an evaluation of the size of the outflows and inflows of funds, the life span of the speculation, the degree of risk attached as well as the price of obtaining funds. Moreover, one of the mainly significant steps in the capital budget... In order to handle these risk managerial decisions, TW has to make an evaluation of the size of the outflows and inflows of funds, the life span of the speculation, the degree of risk attached as well as the price of obtaining funds. Moreover, one of the mainly significant steps in the capital budgeting cycle is working out if the benefits of investing big capital sums overshadow the costs of these investments. The variety of methods that business TWs use can be classify in one of two ways: customary and inexpensive cash flow techniques. Traditional methods comprise the Average Rate of Return and Payback; discounted cash flow (DCF) methods using Net Present Value and Internal Rate of Return. Net Present Value (NPV) According to the expert analysis net present value is a way of comparing the value of money now by means of the value of money in the potential. A euro nowadays is value more than a euro in the future; since inflation erodes the buying power of the prospect money, as money offered nowadays can be invested and so grow. The technique is a three-stage process: "To compute the present value of each component of cash spending in a proposal and then, to add these person present values together to offer a total present worth of the expenditures; To likewise compute the present value of each component of cash income in a proposal and, then, to add these personage present values together to offer a total current value of the incomes; To subtract the total present value of expenditures from the whole current value of the incomes, in order to decide the net current value"; Tinic, S. M., and West, R. R. (1986) If this computation produces an NPV that is optimistic, the

PAPER ON OBAMACARE FROM LIBERTARIANISM AND UTILITARIANISM STAND POINTS Essay

PAPER ON OBAMACARE FROM LIBERTARIANISM AND UTILITARIANISM STAND POINTS - Essay Example The care act would also bring a transformation in the US health care system which is necessary in containing costs. Obamacare from the utilitarianism view point Utilitarianism can also be referred to as the greatest happiness principle. According to this theory, an action can only be right if it promotes happiness to a large number of people (Sandel 200). The intrinsic value for this theory is happiness. The happiness of every one counts equally, and a moral action is the one which brings about the best outcome of all the available outcomes. From utilitarianism point of view, the Obamacare is morally right and morally wrong. The advantages of Obamacare to the US citizens are more than the disadvantages. Obamacare has had positive consequences on the lives of the US citizens and more so the poor and the middle income earners. The advantages of Obamacare include improved quality of health care, low costs of healthcare, new benefits and improved safety. A consequentialist would say that Obamacare is morally right as it maximizes the good part of it to the citizens of that country. Obamacare stands for things which are worthy promoting and pursuing when it comes to the issues of universal health care putting into consideration that health care is an vital part of human living. Obamacare also stands for the right actions and policies all which are in favor of its citizen’s well fair (Sandel 140). The greatest happiness of the people of USA obtained from Obamacare is the measure of right. Healthy living for the USA citizens is considered by utilitarian’s as part of happiness Obamacare is also morally right as it leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in pleasure which is part of the overall utility enjoyed by people. The fact the costs of drugs has been reduced under the Obamcare is enough evidence that it would lead to the reduction of pain for all suffering citizens since they would be able to purchase the drugs. Obamacare also leads to the redu ction in pain and an increase in pleasure for the citizens as care for patients is organized in a way which enhances the care of the patient. The benefit which comes with increase healthcare in US is exceedingly than the problems and the side effects are sufficiently limited which justifies Obamacare on acts of utilitarian grounds. Obamacare is also morally right as it is from its improved quality that infections which would have been acquired from hospitals will be prevented. It will also lead to the prevention of chronic diseases accompanied by improved public health. Utilitarian’s would consider this as being morally right as it would increase the pleasure of people by living disease free lives. The Obamacare would also improve the citizen’s access to innovative therapies which will lead to pain reduction for people suffering diseases requiring therapies. Utilitarian’s also think that the Obamacare is morally wrong. Though coupled with many advantages which m ake many citizens happy, it reduces the level of happiness to some extent. For example, the Federal Government of US forced the millions of uninsured people to get insured. The business people were also forced into paying high taxes in order to fund the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This simply indicates that this was against their will which may not make them too happy. The actions and polices by the act are to a certain extend wrong as the business people

Value and Risk Management in Construction Case Study

Value and Risk Management in Construction - Case Study Example Resulting damage of hazards and threats, which became risks, might be to the physical condition and security of employees, to place, gear or an whole installation, to the surroundings, to products, or to monetary assets (Waring, 2001). For those belongings of risks to commerce, this account suggests you ways to avoid/transfer; reduce/control or luxury them in case they occur to your business. The report finished upon the leadership of Mr. Dennis, Master of Marketing. If we analyze then we come to know that naturally, a decision to invest 5M in a capital project involves a mainly irreversible obligation of resources that is generally subject to an important degree of risk. Such verdicts have far-reaching effect on a company's productivity and elasticity over the long term, thus necessitate that they be part of a cautiously developed strategy that is based on dependable appraisal and forecasting actions. In order to handle these risk managerial decisions, TW has to make an evaluation of the size of the outflows and inflows of funds, the life span of the speculation, the degree of risk attached as well as the price of obtaining funds. Moreover, one of the mainly significant steps in the capital budget... In order to handle these risk managerial decisions, TW has to make an evaluation of the size of the outflows and inflows of funds, the life span of the speculation, the degree of risk attached as well as the price of obtaining funds. Moreover, one of the mainly significant steps in the capital budgeting cycle is working out if the benefits of investing big capital sums overshadow the costs of these investments. The variety of methods that business TWs use can be classify in one of two ways: customary and inexpensive cash flow techniques. Traditional methods comprise the Average Rate of Return and Payback; discounted cash flow (DCF) methods using Net Present Value and Internal Rate of Return. Net Present Value (NPV) According to the expert analysis net present value is a way of comparing the value of money now by means of the value of money in the potential. A euro nowadays is value more than a euro in the future; since inflation erodes the buying power of the prospect money, as money offered nowadays can be invested and so grow. The technique is a three-stage process: "To compute the present value of each component of cash spending in a proposal and then, to add these person present values together to offer a total present worth of the expenditures; To likewise compute the present value of each component of cash income in a proposal and, then, to add these personage present values together to offer a total current value of the incomes; To subtract the total present value of expenditures from the whole current value of the incomes, in order to decide the net current value"; Tinic, S. M., and West, R. R. (1986) If this computation produces an NPV that is optimistic, the

Business Writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Business Writing - Essay Example This minimizes disputes, since unrecorded conversations can be distorted or forgotten, and can easily be retrieved when categorized and stored properly. Although a memo is an informal letter, it should still indicate relevant information so that receiving parties can act accordingly. Such information includes the addressees of the memo, date, name of the sender and most importantly, the subject of the matter. A memo can be distributed internally or posted in the company's bulletin board. On the other hand, a business letter is very formal because more likely than not, it is intended for external parties. As such, the format of a letter differs greatly from that of a memo. A business letter includes the recipient's name and address, date, salutation, subject, body of the letter, complimentary close and signature of the sender. Sometimes, an enclosure is included if required. In addition, a business letter must be printed using the company's letterhead. The writing method used in a business letter should be formal, polite and serious to indicate the level of professionalism. The content of a business letter should also be clear and concise. A business letter is usually sent by post or courier.

The Theory Of Colour Essay Example for Free

The Theory Of Colour Essay Colour surrounds us and as such will impact, critically, on the way we feel. Certain colours and colour combinations or tone are mood enhancing making us feel happy, peaceful or energised, other colours will make us make us feel sad, angry, agitated or subdued. Business, fashion and the media make full use of their understanding of colour to achieve their aims and this often results in colour trends that will make certain colours or combinations being dated and others modern or up to the minute. The considered use of colour and tone can also make locations or items more attractive and thus increase sales or create environments where sales are enhanced. E. g. In hotels or restaurants colour can be used to create an ambience such as classical to ensure that customers will return and high prices charged. In a fast food restaurant, where sales are limited colour and design will be used to encourage customers to eat quickly and leave. The psychology of colour shows the degree to which we are all affected at a subconscious level by colour. For example the colour pink is used to suppress feelings of anger and violence in disturbed adolescents. Colours can also be related to gender and sexuality as well as seen as relating to periods in history e. g. Egyptian, Classical, and Victorian etc. It is clear then that in order to be effective in the area of interior design one needs to understand and apply the theory of colour. This is achieved by assisting the client to determining the most appropriate colour scheme for them. This will be based on a fluent understanding of colour carefully applied to the taste, personality and preference of the client, their choice of style or period, and the atmosphere they wish to create e. g. formal, cosy. Pragmatically it will need to include the consideration of furnishings, the purpose of the room, the geography of the room, lighting and costs. It is also very important to know when the room is likely to be used the most as colours are dramatically affected by the quality of light. That is to say a colour scheme will look quite different in the evening than it will in the daytime. Rooms that are used frequently tend to lend themselves to a lighter colour treatment. Thus colour is the foundation on which the design for an interior is based and should include all aspects such as walls, ceilings, woodwork, furnishings, architecture and needs to also consider contrasts and textures. It is important to start by understanding the theory of colour and the development of the colour wheel. This is based on the three primary colours red, yellow blue, that cannot be mixed from any other colours These colours are then the first on the wheel and by mixing them together we can create the whole colour spectrum. Thus two primary colours when mixed will provide a secondary colour e. g. red yellow will create orange thus we have the secondary colours orange, green purple. Tertiary colours are achieved by mixing one primary and one secondary colour together. Thus blue (primary) mixed with purple (secondary) creates blue violet (tertiary). See attached colour wheel. The tone of a colour refers to how light or dark it is. When we add white to a colour we have a tint and when we add black we have a shade. The addition of grey both white and black, to a colour creates a depth of colour called a tone (Please see attached) Hue is the correct name for colour it is important to note that the best use both hue and tone will provide a successful colour scheme for a room this includes mixing separate colours to the same tone. Restricting darker or lighter shades to small areas such as skirting and rails.

Electron Transport Chain in Respiratory Complex I

Electron Transport Chain in Respiratory Complex I Introduction Every organism depends on energy to survive, in order to maintain an organized state, homeostasis, through metabolism and other biochemical reactions. Energy is generated in a number of different ways depending on the organism. Mammals create energy through the breakdown of organic molecules, such as carbohydrates, proteins and lipids, that yields other compounds that drives cellular processes. One such compound is ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) an essential energy-carrying molecule that is synthesised by respiration through a series of enzyme protein complexes found in the mitochondria. Complex I (NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase) is one of those essential protein complex embedded in mammalian mitochondria. NADH produced by the Krebs tricarboxylic acid cycle and ÃŽÂ ²-oxidation of fatty acids, is oxidised to initiate the mechanistic pathway of Complex I, ultimately reducing ubiquinone and establish proton-motive force across the inner membrane of the mitochondria. It is this proton g radient that will support the generation of ATP from ATP synthase and other core processes. Significant research has been conducted on Complex I, particularly from Bovine heart mitochondria, however to date many aspects of this enzyme is still poorly understood due to its complex structural arrangement and pathways undertaken. To decipher its mechanism, will eventually lead to a greater understanding in the role of Complex I in many diseases and dysfunctions. Mitochondria Mitochondria are small sub-cellular organelles involved in a series of processes primarily with its role in the respiratory system. Occupying almost 10% to 30% of cell volumes of sizes ranging between 0.75 and 3ÃŽÂ ¼m, the unique shape of a mitochondrion allows the process to take place, with its key structural feature being a double membrane.1 These two membranes are separated by the intermembrane space and overall enclose the central matrix. Whereas the outer membrane is inundated by porins to facilitate the movement of solutes of about 12 kDa or less; the inner membrane is impermeable to solutes but presents the ideal environment for the establishment of an electrochemical proton gradient, by the presence of numerous protein complexes. Additional compartments of the organelle include the cristae and the mitochondrial matrix, which comprises a plethora of enzymes involved in ATP metabolism. Additionally, a range of studies have also indicated the ability of mitochondria to form dynamic networks of interconnected tubules that regulates the cell structure to adapt to its specific function when required. As a result, during disruption of such networks, cellular dysfunction can occur, leading to a number of neural related syndromes such as Parkinsons and Alzheimers.2,3 Aside from the primary role of energy metabolism, the mitochondria also power other core cellular functions such as apoptosis, calcium handling and the formation of iron sulphur clusters. The following sections discuss the main enzymes involved in the electron transport chain that lead to the generation of ATP, particularly respiratory complex I, which will be the main focus of this thesis. Respiratory Complexes Complex II Also known as succinate: ubiquinone oxidoreductase, complex II is a 120 kDa enzyme consisting of four nuclear-encoded subunits which are arranged in two domains.4 It is this distinctive arrangement which allows this enzyme to oxidise succinate to fumarate which is coupled to the production of ubiquinol through the reduction of ubiquinone in the mitochondrial inner membrane. While it is involved with cofactors, this enzyme complex does not directly contribute to the proton motive force in order to establish a chemical gradient.4,5 Succinate+ Q à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Fumarate + QH2 Equation 1: Two of the enzymes subunits SdhA and SdhB form a hydrophilic, succinate dehydrogenase subcomplex and forms the succinate/fumarate binding site whereas SdhB contains three iron-sulphur clusters which are embedded to the mitochondrial membrane by the remaining SdhC and SdhD subunits.4 These latter subunits contain a heam group and ubiqionone binding sites. When a flavin dinucleotide, which is ligated to SdhA, it oxidises succinate, the electrons produced in this process are passed down through the iron-sulphur clusters. The electrons subsequently allow the reduction of ubiquinone to ubiquinol.6,7 Complex III Complex III or ubiquinol:cytochrome c oxidoreductase is an 240 kDa enzyme which is made up of 11 subunits. Its structure comprises of two ubiquinone binding sites; Qo, present towards the mitochondrial membrane, catalyses the oxidation of ubiquinol to ubiquinone and Qi, present towards the matrix, catalyses the reduction of ubiquinone to ubiquinol.8,9 Complexes I and II produces ubiquinol from the reduction of ubiquinone, which binds to the Qo site on complex III. During this process, an electron is passed along the iron-sulfur cluster reducing it and moving it towards cytochrome c1 and cytochrome c resulting in a conformational change. The change causes a second electron to be transferred through another pathway formed of cytochromes bL and bH towards to Qi binding site, in where it allows the formation of a semiquinone anion through the reduction of an already bound ubiquinone. Parallel to this, a second quinol is oxidised at Qo allowing the electron to be transferred through the first pathway of Rieske iron-sulphur cluster and cytochrome c1 and the second electron follows the second pathway mentioned above to Qi, reducing the semiquinone anion to ubiquinol.10 The oxidation at Qo releases four protons into the inter-membrane space of the mitochondria and the reduction at Qi results in the uptake of two protons from the matrix wh ich are transferred into the inter-membrane space during ubiquinol oxidation. This complete cycle allows the reduction of two cytochrome c molecules.9 QH2 + 2 cyt c3+ + 2H+in à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Q + 2 cyt c2+ + 4H+out Equation 2: Oxidation and reduction cycles in Complex III results in the movement of four protons into the inter-membrane space maintains the proton motive force used by ATP synthase to synthesise ATP.8 Complex IV Complex IV, also known as cytochrome c oxidase, is an enzyme, which comprises of 13 subunits, of which three are encoded by the mitochondrial genome. The enzyme catalyses the oxidation of cytochrome c which leads to the reduction of oxygen to water allowing the translocation of four protons across the mitochondrial inner membrane.11,12 The oxidation of cytochrome c produces electrons that are transferred to an active site where molecular oxygen is reduced. This reduction producing water releases free energy required for the pumping of four protons from the matrix of the mitochondria into its inner-membrane space. This movement of protons is facilitated through two known proton channels: the K-channel passes two protons for the reduction of oxygen and the D-channel allows the movement of newly translocated protons.13 O2 + 4 cyt c2+ + 8H+in à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ 2 H2O + 4 cyt c3+ + 4H+out Equation 3: The translocated protons and the reduction of oxygen to water allows ATP synthase to generate ATP as this contributes to the proton motive force similar to Complex III. Complex V Primarily known as ATP Synthase, this enzyme complex operates by utilising the proton chemical gradient established in the intermembrane space by the preceding complexes, to drive the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic Phosphate. With an average size of 580 kDa, the enzyme is composed of 16 subunits organised in two hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains; the hydrophobic domain forms a proton conductive pore through the inner membrane while the hydrophilic domain, containing three copies of ÃŽÂ ± and ÃŽÂ ² subunits, spreads into the matrix. The two domains are linked by an asymmetric central stalk and a peripheral stalk, which acts as a stator to prevent the F1 domain rotating freely during catalysis. The interfaces between the two subunits forms the binding sites for ADP and inorganic Phosphate. 14,15 ADP + P+ nH+in à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ ATP + nH+out Equation 4 Complex I Complex I, is the first and largest enzyme involved the electron transfer chain of the mitochondrion. Alternatively known as NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase, its primary role is to oxidise NADH and ultimately reduce ubiquinone.16 NADH + H+ + Q + 4H+in à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ NAD+ + QH2 + 4H+out Equation 5: Just like the other protein complexes, the potential energy released from the redox reaction within the complex, translocates four protons across the inner membrane for every molecule of oxidized NADH and removes two additional protons from the matrix for the reduction of quinone. The processes contribute to the overall electrochemical gradient which is to be used by ATP synthase to synthesise ATP.17 Structure To date, complex I has been found in a variety of species, including many prokaryotes. The complex I from bovine heart mitochondria is primarily used in studies due to its close sequential identity with the human complex I enzyme. The mammalian complex I is one of the most complex and largest enzymes known, with a combined mass of 980 kDA and composed of at least 45 different polypeptide subunits; with 14 strictly conserved core subunits that are necessary for function and also common across the among all known complex I.16 The significance of the additional subunits in complex I among different species still remain a mystery. It is known some be involved in protection against reactive oxygen species generation and some are required needed for proper assembly and stability of the enzyme.16,18 As observed by single-particle electron microscopy (EM) for both bacterial and mitochondrial enzymes, the determined structure of the enzyme closely resembles to an L shape, with seven hydrophobic core subunits that constitutes the membrane tail domain and seven hydrophilic core subunits that constitutes peripheral (hydrophilic) arm domain protruding into the mitochondrial matrix; which is known as the catalytic domain as it includes all redox centres and binding site while the membrane domain consists mostly of hydrophobic subunits. 16 While the full structure of the eukaryotic complex is not still well characterised, in 2006, Sazanov group successfully reported structure of the hydrophilic domain of complex I from Thermus thermophiles bacteria.20 The Peripheral Arm of complex I The peripheral arm of the complex is composed of seven individual subunits, that together, houses the NADH-oxidizing dehydrogenase module, which provides electron input into a noncovalently-bound flavin mononucleotide (FMN) molecule. The molecule sequentially transfers the electron to a chain of nine iron-sulphur (Fe-S) clusters, eight of which are found in the bovine enzyme. Additionally, the hydrophilic arm also comprises of a Q-module, which conducts electrons to the quinone-binding site for quinol production. 16,20 All of these Within the respiratory chain complexes, there are three different types of Fe-S clusters, two of which, are found in complex I; Two binuclear [2Fe-2S] and six tetranuclear [4Fe-4S] clusters. As the name suggests, the binuclear clusters are composed of two iron atoms that function as bridged by two acid-labile sulphur atoms. Each iron atom is also coordinated by an additional two sulphur atoms found on the surrounding cysteine residues from the protein complex. In the tetranuclear Fe-S clusters, four iron atoms and four sulphur atoms are arranged in a cube with each iron atom also ligated to sulphur cysteine-residue on the surrounding protein, similar to binuclear Fe-S.22 Due to their conformational arrangements and redox capabilities provided by the iron atom, these clusters act as electron transfer agents or also known as ferrodoxins. The detection of these clusters can be achieved by EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) which is successfully achieved in many studies. However, out of the two binuclear and six tetranuclear iron-sulfur clusters found in complex I, only two binuclear and four tetranuclear clusters are EPR active.22 Figure 1.: structures of the iron-sulphur clusters found in complex I. As previously mentioned, seven of the eight clusters, form a 95 Ã…-long extensive chain directly from the flavin site to the quinone binding site on the interface of the membrane domain. Even though the distances between these chains may seem far apart, as much as 14 Ã…, distances are close enough to allow electron transfer to occur.23,24 However, the presence of the eight cluster is still not well understood. Cluster 2Fe[24] found on the opposite side of the Flavin site, is believed not to be involved in electron transfer pathway. While it was just a theory with no evidence, it has been proposed that this additional cluster functions as an electron store that accepts an electron from the flavosemiquinone species preventing the generation of reactive oxygen species during enzyme turnover.24 Membrane Domain of complex I The membrane domain comprises the proton-translocating module which catalyses proton transport. With the exception of subunit ND1 and the quinone binding site, found on the interface of the peripheral arm, the membrane domain functions totally independently from the two arms of complex I. Within the membrane domain, there are four structural subunits that have been identified to be possibly involved with proton translocation; these include subunits ND2, ND4 and ND5. There is also an additional transporter which believed to be either ND1, ND6 or ND4L. Each believed to be transporting one proton per catalytic cycle. Each individual subunits are composed of charged residues and helices that creates half-channels that allow the passage of proton to occur. The membrane structure is also held together by a long ÃŽÂ ±-helix chain that spans across its entire length. Its feature is to maintain and support the integrity of the membrane domain.26 Overall Mechanism of complex I The mammalian complex I includes 45 known proteins, out of which 14 core subunits comprises of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains as explained above.16 The mechanism through the electron transfer chain starts with a Flavin mononucleotide (FMN) molecule which is non-covalently bound to the 51kDa subunit through hydrogen bonds at the top of the hydrophilic domain. FMN molecule oxidises NADH leading to the reduction of iron-sulphur clusters (Fe-S) which transfers electrons from Flavin to the quinone-binding site {51}. This electron transfer distorts the conformation of the protein through changes in its redox state leading to alterations in pKa values of its side chains; these alterations allows four hydrogen ions being pumped out of the mitochondrial matrix.24 It is believed NADH gets oxidised to NAD+ through a hydride transfer avoiding the formation of the unstable NAD. Radical.24 This oxidation process occurs when the nicotinamide ring of the NADH lies above the flavin isoalloxazine system, allowing the electron donor hydride (C4 of the 27 nicotinamide ring) and acceptor (N5 of the flavin) to come within 3.5 Ã… of each other and transfer electrons.28 As explained above, NADH oxidation leads to transfer of electrons through seven iron-sulphur clusters chain between Flavin and quinone reduction binding site in the membrane.20 It is the final Fe-S cluster that donates the electrons to the bound ubiquinone substrate which is believed to be accessed through an entry point in the membrane to the binding site.21 These iron-sulphur clusters are best detected using a technique called electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Previous studies have observed five reduced Fe-S clusters through EPR from Bovine compliex I reduced by NADH, and their spectra are represented N1b, N2, N3, N4 and N5.25 This technique will be further explained throughout this thesis. A much recent study by Roessler et al. (2010) used EPR to understand the tunnelling electron transfer pathway through these clusters. Previous studies have already established EPR signals N1b, N2 and N3 are detected from 2Fe cluster in the 75 kDa subunit (position 2), and from 4Fe clusters in the PSST (position7) and 51 kDa subunits (position 1) respectively along the clusters chain due to interactions with ubisemiquinones and flavosemiquinone. As the other EPR signals have yet failed to be assigned to a particular cluster, Roessler et al. (2010) went on to use double electron-electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy to detect N4 and N5. Their results demonstrate that N4 is assigned to the first 4Fe cluster in the TYKY subunit (position 5), and N5 to the all-cysteine ligated 4Fe cluster in the 75 kDa subunit (position 3).25 The study propose an alternating energy potential profile for electron transfer along the chain between the actives sites, in B.taurus, which enhances the rate of a single electron travelling through the empty chain subsequently leading to more efficient energy conversion in complex I.25 Followed by the iron-sulfur cluster is the site of quinone reduction. A study performed by Sazanov and Hinchliffe has identified a supposed binding site for the quinone head group from T. thermophilus complex I hydrophilic domain between the 49 kDa and PSST subunits.20 This alleged site is close to the cluster where the ubiquinone substrate accepts electrons from the chain and it has also been acknowledged the 49 kDa and PSST subunits play an important role in quinone binding and catalysis.29 Nevertheless, it is believed that additional hydrophobic subunits may also be involved in quinone binding and these are still being investigated. Even though the mechanism of NADH oxidation and ubiquinone reduction is relatively well understood, how this oxidoreduction leads to quinone reduction and subsequent protons pumping across the mitochondrial membrane from complex I still remain a mystery. A number of theories for complex I mechanism have been proposed based on the proton-pumping systems of the other mitochondrial respiratory complexes. These theories have been outlined below: A direct coupling mechanism as demonstrated by complex IV through cytochrome c oxidase where the proton transfer is determined by a gating reaction occurring at the same time as the electron transfer reaction that started it.30 An indirect coupling mechanism as seen in complex V (ATP synthase) explained previously. A study performed by Efremov et al., suggests that within complex I, one proton is translocated by a directly coupled mechanism at the Fe-S clusters and the rest are moved when quinone reduction drives conformational changes to the four-helix bundle of Nqo4 and of Nqo6 in complex I, subsequently affecting the C-terminal helix of Nqo12. The C-terminal has been identified by the authors running parallel to the membrane. The effect on this helix consequently leads to the other three helices to tilt which results in proton translocation.31 A Q-cycle-like mechanism as represented by complex III where quinol is used as a carrier to transport protons across the mitochondrial membrane. A study completed by Dutton and co-workers suggested the complete reverse of this mechanism for complex I featuring the presence of two ubiquinone binding sites; one facing the inter-membrane space, Qo, and the other facing the mitochondrial matrix, Qi. The quinone substrate would bind at Qi, and be reduced by one electron from a quinol already bound at Qo and another electron from the Fe-S cluster; subsequently leading to two protons being taken up from the matrix while the formed semiquinone specie is still bound at Qo. Following the uptake of the protons, semiquinone is oxidised to ubiquinone.32 Nevertheless, further studies conducted have found no evidence of ubiquinol oxidation signifying complex I do not work through this mechanism.30,33 While the first isolation of complex I from bovine heart mitochondria by Joe Hatefi et al occurred 40 years ago, information on its overall mechanism of action is still very limited particularly the mechanism of redox-proton coupling occurring in the membrane domain. To further understand this, new studies are being conducted to trap radical intermediates formed at the interface of the peripheral and membrane arm to establish the pathway that initiates proton translocation. Semiquinone radicals Semiquinones are catalytic intermediates formed within complex I during the reduction of quinones at the quinone binding site and can exist in neutral or anionic form. Due to the presence of the unpaired electron, semiquinone intermediates can be studied using EPR spectroscopy. There are numerous pathways in which the formation of semiquinones can occur from quinone. The scheme below, proposed by Roessler and Hirst, illustrates the three main possible routes taken to obtain quinol. Pathways A and B involves with the generation of a neutral semiquinone radical specie based on the transferring of a proton and electron. On the other hand, pathway C which follows through pathway B involve with the generation of an anionic radical specie generated from an electron transfer. All pathways lead to formation of quinol by series of electron transfer and protons. The pathway shown in grey which occurs from the protonation of the neutral semiquinone radical specie will result in a 1-electron-2-centre bond which are energetically unstable.27 Aside from one study, majority of the studies till date, have proved the existence of semiquinones by observing EPR signals using submitochondrial particles (SMPs). As the name suggests, these are inverted membrane vesicles housing the entire electron transport chain containing all enzyme complexes.34 However, since quinone cofactors are used by majority of the other complexes, distinguishing the semiquinone signals with each complex, has been far from successful. More recently, there has been a wave of research focusing on the identification of semiquinone radicals exclusively from complex I, however these have proved even more challenging as the organic intermediates produced very low intensity signals. Within complex I, there are two species of semiquinone that have been identified; SQNf and SQNs.35,36 Based on their EPR properties, SQNf or fast relaxing semiquinones has been reported only during the presence of an established proton gradient across the membrane. On the other hand, SQNs or slow relaxing semiquinones, are not effected by proton gradient. The presence of two semiquinones has also lead to the possibility of complex I to contain two separate quinone binding sites; Due to SQNf having a spin-spin interaction with Fe-S cluster N2, it is theorised that SQNf binding site is located close to the cluster at around 12 Ã… estimated distance, in contrast, SQNs binding site is suggested to be located around 30 Ã… from N2 cluster.22,25,37 Within the complex, the SQNf is believed to be involved in proton pumping and its site aids the system by acting as bound co-factor site that facilitates the transfer of one electron from one site to another allowing the formation of a binding pocket for the SQNs in equilibrium with the ubiquinone pool of the membrane.22,25,32,35,38 The presence of two separate quinone binding sites still remains a mystery and cannot be totally ruled out even though it has been suggested that SQNf and SQNs signals are detected from the same semiquinone species located from different sites or present in catalysis states.39 A recent potential way of observing semiquinone intermediates via EPR is through the use of liposomes. Liposomes containing just Complex I or proteoliposomes, will facilitate the capture of semiqinone within its native environment and hopefully provide an insight in the mechanism of Complex I and the binding of Q10. Liposomes Liposomes are spherical nanovesicles used in a variety of applications. Composed of a phospholipid bilayer, these small vesicles have an aqueous solution core surrounded by a hydrophobic membrane. Hydrophobic chemicals associate with the bilayer while the hydrophilic solutes dissolved in the core cannot readily pass through the bilayer; essentially mimicking the cellular phospholipid bilayer. Due to these features, liposomes can be loaded both with hydrophobic or hydrophilic molecules and are excellent drug carriers or in this case house protein complexes. Liposomes are also not naturally occurring and must be artificially generated using lipid extracts by aggregating them.40 As liposomes are formed from naturally occurring lipids of low intrinsic toxicity, they are biodegradable and non-toxic. The functionality of liposomes is dependent based on three main factors. These include: size, bilayer composition and liposome surface properties.40 Phospholipids are one the essential components in the formations of liposomes and can be divided into synthetic and natural phospholipids. They consist of two fatty acids hydrophobic chains linked to a hydrophilic (polar) head group, and they have either glycerol or sphingomyeline as the back bone. Having both hydrophobic and hydrophilic components, make phospholipids having amphipathic molecules.41 The diversity of the hydrophilic head group molecules and hydrophobic chains length allows the formation of different phospholipids which affects the surface charge and bilayer permeability of the liposomes.40 The length and degree of saturation of the hydrocarbon acyl chains determines the stability of the liposomal membrane, by affecting the temperature at which the membrane changes from a closely packed gel phase to a fluid phase. The surface charge of the liposomes is determined by the charge of the lipid forming it which can be altered by modifying lipids with hydrophilic moieties to membrane bilayers.40 Liposomes can be composed of naturally-derived phospholipids such as cholesterol, one of the commonly used lipids in liposome formation. It enhances the stability of the lipid bilayer and form highly ordered and rigid membrane with fluid like characteristics. Other phospholipids, synthetic and non-synthetic, can also be used for the formation of the liposomes such as pure surfactant components like DOPC (1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine).42 Classifications of liposomes Liposomes are classified according to their morphological sizes and lamellarity, depending on their composition and method of formation.40 Multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) consists several concentric phospholipid bilayers or lamellar ranging between 100nm to 20  µm in size depending on the method of preparation. These large bilayers allow the integration of lipophilic molecules and proteins. Small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs) single phospholipid bilayer and sized between 20 nm to 100nm. Ideal for encapsulation small compounds and proteins. Large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) single phospholipid bilayer with size ranging from 100 nm to 1  µm. They are known to have larger aqueous core compared with or MLVs, making them suitable to useful to load with numerous compounds. Oligolamellar vesicles (OLVs) vesicles similarly structured to MLVs but consists of anywhere between two and five phospholipid bilayers. Multivesicular liposomes (MVLs) When a large liposome vesicle similar in size to an MLV, enclose a group of liposomes, then the subsequent vesicle is known as multivesicular liposome (MVL). Figure 1.40 The current state of research on liposomes have primarily been focusing on the administration of drugs and other compounds to biological systems since it overcome challenges associated with reaching the target, making them very useful in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.40 Furthermore, it should be noted, some surfactant based phospholipids can mimic the biological systems helping construct important model systems for the research on enzymes and membranes. Many recent publications concerning liposomes have been focused on using this mimetic chemistry, which deals with models, mimicking cellular membrane to facilitate the research into their structures as well as the mechanisms both in vivo and in vitro.40 Aims of Project The current state of research on complex I remain largely focused on the determination of the mechanism since only a fraction has been found. Fully understanding will help solve many diseases and other complication caused by complex I. Whereas the mechanism of the reactions between NADH and iron sulphur clusters have been established, little is known about the mechanism of proton translocation as well as the role and existence of semiquinones that will lead into revealing more information into the function of the enzyme. The work described in the following records, using the best technique available, EPR, will aim to be using current studies of using liposomes to mimic cellular conditions, similar to the mitochondrial membrane, for complex I in order to obtain data regarding reduction of Q10 and proton translocation. Materials Preparation of Complex I from Bovine Mitochondria Preparation of Complex I proteoliposomes Stock solutions of 25 mgmL-1 of POPC in chloroform was transferred to a glass homogeniser with the required amount of ubiquinone-10 contained in chloroform. The chloroform was removed under Argon. An alternative approach is to remove under vacuum using rotary evaporator. The resulting phospholipid film was resuspended in 675 ÃŽÂ ¼L of buffer (10 mM Tris-SO4 (pH 7.5) and 50 mM KCl), and extruded 25 times through a Whatman 0.1 ÃŽÂ ¼m pore membrane. The liposome mixture was solubilised with the addition of 160 ÃŽÂ ¼L of octyl-glucoside from an aqueous 10% stock solution, sonicated for 10 min, and further incubated on ice for 10 min. The following steps were carried out at 4  °C. 0.2 mg of AOX (50 ÃŽÂ ¼L of 7.8 mgmL-1) and 0.2 mg of complex I (10 ÃŽÂ ¼L of 20 mgmL-1) were added to the solubilised lipids and incubated for a further 10 min, followed by the addition of 100 ÃŽÂ ¼L of SM2 Biobeads. The mixture wa

Obesity in America Essay -- Health Diet Nutrition

Obesity is on the rise, and it is becoming more and more of a national health concern. It effects more than 1/3 of the population, and an additional 1/3 is overweight. With obesity becoming more and more of a problem each year, the American population is going to suffer from a catastrophic health emergency. What is obesity? Obesity is a heath condition where the subject has an abnormally large amount of fat for their height. A person who has a body mass index of over 30 is classified obese by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. Who does obesity affect? Obesity affects 1/3 of all classes of Americans. However, the highest percentage of obese people per captain can be found in the lower class. The lower class typically eats more cheap, highly processed, high-calorie foods. What causes obesity? Overweight and obesity result from an energy imbalance. This involves eating too many calories and not getting enough physical activity. High calorie foods are more easily available today than ever before. Americans have also never had a less active lifestyle. What action can be taken? I b...

Greek Mythology :: Greek Mythology, Informative

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Long ago, people lacked knowledge on why certain things happened. Without scientific answers, like we have today, the Ancient Greeks created their own answers about the world and an individual’s place in it. These tales were known as myths. They described the feelings and values that bound the members of society. There are two types of myths -- creation myths and explanatory myths. A creation myth explained the start of many events such as the origin of the world and the creation of human beings. An explanatory myth explained a natural process or event such as illness and death. Most myths concerned divine beings such as gods, goddesses and other heroes with supernatural powers. These characters had many human characteristics, aside from their special powers, that included birth and death and the presence of emotions such as love and jealousy. These human qualities of the divine beings reflected the values of society. Such characters are called anthropomor phic, derived from two Greek words meaning â€Å"in the shape of man†. Gods and goddesses that resembled animals were referred to as theriomorphic, derived from two Greek words meaning â€Å"in the shape of an animal†. The last group of mythical characters has no name. They didn’t take the form of a complete human or animal, such as a figure with a human body and an animal head. As well as being entertaining and interesting to read, myths played an important role in Ancient Greek society.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Greeks honored their gods with different kinds of festivals. Their celebrations have continued throughout the years and two have become worldwide traditions.

Concerns of Ethics in Management

What is the status of ethics in management? This is a very hard question to address in a three to four page paper because there is no definite answer. As with many society-wide concerns, ethics runs the entire spectrum of behaviors; from Wal-Mart being very customer oriented and a friend of charity to those fly-by-night repair scams that tend to prey on the elderly. When does a business cross the line from making a profit to stealing a profit? That is a hard line to gauge. Laws are designed to make that line a little clearer but laws can't out think the mind of man. If a way can be thought of to make money it already has been or is being thought of. It's where people are taken advantage of that we need to worry. There are many business in place that simply prey on the people who don't know any better. Whether its the feature on Prime-Time that shows elderly people tricked into phony home repairs or the local business that offered a friend of mine a computer at an inflated price with an outrageous financing plan, some business practices are unethical. What I will focus on today is not the clearly right or the clearly wrong but that vast amount of items that are in the middle. Looking at more of a gray area, Wal-Mart is generally viewed as an ethical company but even they have a reputation for unfair competition. Wal-Mart has a marketing plan that targets smaller cities with large-volume discount stores. While this may not appear to be unfair on its face, many people have felt it's negative effect. When Wal-Mart moves into a market, many of it's smaller competitors go out of business. Small business in small towns can't compete with the prices, availability, or selection of a huge conglomerate like Wal-Mart. People in the towns don't have much of a choice. Pay more for less or pay less for more? Not are hard decision. But the ultimate effect is that many small business can't survive the competition. Is that ethically wrong? That is a very hard call to make. I recently had an experience of buying a new car. I shopped around Coos Bay and also in Roseburg while on a recent trip. I was in the market to buy a Dodge Ram. The prices seemed to be about the same in these two markets. My father and I decided to drive to Portland to look further. When we got there, the first dealership that we saw had over thirty Dodge Rams on the front lot with a recent shipment of more in the back. Compared to the Coos Bay dealership which had nine. Immediately, I noticed that the price at that dealership was $1,300 less than the same model with the same package in Coos Bay. Both stickers said the price quoted was the manufacturers suggested retail price. Already over $1,000 to the good, we decided to look further. We found six Rams that had an additional mark down of $2,000. This was because of an engine style in the process of being phased out that had an additional rebate. Looking at the two different models from Portland and Coos Bay we would save $3,300 by buying here. We decided to look no further. We selected the color and bought my truck. Overall, we had a very pleasant experience but what about the people who buy from the Coos Bay dealership and spend over $3,000 more? Are they being unethically taken advantage of? That's a hard call as well. I took an equal opportunity class in High School and during that class someone inevitably brings up car prices in Coos Bay as being unfair. Are these prices unfair or is it just the law of supply and demand? Was the two thousand dollars that I saved in Portland because that model car wasn't available to the dealership in Coos Bay? That difference can be easily excusable. The other $1,300 I have a harder time with. I took detailed notes and both stickers were basically identical with the exception of price. Each indicated a different manufacturers suggested retail price. Ethically, I think the line has been crossed. There can't be two different manufacturers suggested retail prices for the same car. One has to be wrong. I had a good experience buying this car but not everyone will. I've been to the dealerships in the past that have used those high pressure tactics to coerce people into buying or spending more than they can afford. Those are the kind of ethical issues that can't be legislated. Thinking through the ethics issues reminded me of my car buying experience because just like in the ethical issues, there is no clear cut answer. In ethics, one would think that there is right and wrong but in real life cases of ethics in business there is not. There is no black and white answer only millions of shades of gray. Think about junk faxes, what is so wrong about sending an unsolicited advertisement to someone. People get them almost every day in their mailbox. It seems like a reasonable response but the differences are great. The junk fax ties up an important communication tool of the company and the costs are split between the sender and the recipient without the recipient's permission. The cost to the sender is simply the cost of a telephone call. While the cost to the recipient is the cost of paper, ink, and power to receive the call in addition to the loss of use of the machine during reception. I wouldn't want to get junk mail in my mailbox, if I had to pay for it!. I don't like it much even when I don't have to pay for it. But is this practice of junk faxing wrong? I say no. Ethically, I feel that it's not wrong if the faxes are reasonable in length and company has a process to quit sending faxes if a recipient requests. I was the recipient of one junk fax. It came into my mailbox here in Talent at the Anjou Club. It was an advertisement to buy office supplies. Now there is no law, either civil or military, that prohibits this but I realized this isn't something that the Apartment complex should pay for. I took the fax to the manager's office and they drafted a letter to request that it be stopped. They stated that if any more faxes were received, Anjou Club apartment's would no longer do business with this company. This was motivation enough for them not to do it. I never received another fax. With business, that is how the system must work. If the pursuit of the bottom line goes to far, then the bottom line must be threatened. I don't think there is anything ethically wrong with many business practices. It's all a matter of people being satisfied with the product that they are getting. If they are satisfied, the business will flourish. If not, it will suffer. That is probably the best way to measure ethics in management. Overall, I think the status of ethics is management needs some work. There are very good companies out there that charge a fair price to make a reasonable profit but there are many business in place that prey on the weak and poor.

Decision making Essay

The first skill set is learning how to use the four primary ethical perspectives that are used in decision making. These perspectives are called the Four Ethical Lenses. The second skill is learning to use a practical and repeatable decision-making method called the Baird Decision Model. As we become adults, one of our primary responsibilities is to decide what values and ethical priorities are the most important to us. The ethical game simulation assist with that. Mysterious Blogger and Unveiled I. D. The ethical issues that were addressed in these simulations were religion and violation of company policies. In the mysterious blogger simulation an employee hacked another employee’s personal PC only to find that the other employee was blogging about the company. Which was in violation of the company’s policy. In the unveiled I. D simulation an employee, which is a woman has issues taking a photo for an ID because it is against her religion to show her face unless amongst other women only. The decisions making steps I took to resolve these dilemmas was the being reasonable lens trying to consider what is good, fair, true, and virtuous. I also used the responsible lens trying to make an ethical choice based on my analysis. The ethical perspectives that influenced my decision making was Being Attentive: Collect the facts and notice what’s being said. Being Intelligent: Find the underlying issue and determine who’s really involved. Being Reasonable: Use the lenses to consider what is good, what is true, what is fair, and what is virtuous. Being Responsible: Make an ethical choice based on your analysis. Being Reflective: Defend your choice with careful thought and observe the aftermath closely. The way these ethical perspectives influenced my decisions was through personal and community values. Trying to understand and asses the situations, while also being fair and unbiased, so that all can feel addressed and handled in the correct manner. The way concepts from the simulation relate to the workplace is very simple and straight forward. The concepts helps one to understand the situation by analyzing and placing it in a particular lens. By doing this one has a better grasp on how to handle and resolve the issues that may take place. When in the workplace there are different races, genders and religions and these simulations touch base on in-depth issues that has definitely arose in the business environment. Having a clear process in place for evaluating exceptions ensures that all are treated equally, including the least advantaged. Conclusion With time and practice, the conflicts inherent in moral dilemmas can become opportunities for developing your ethical self. When you come across difference, remember that we all have our chosen lens. â€Å"Arguments over the â€Å"right thing to do† often stem from differing definitions of what actions are ethical† (ethicsgame. 2013). Knowing your ethical lens and how it effects ones decision making only enhances an individual’s work ethic, morals and decision making in one’s personal life.

Power that Information Technology opens up in Information Essay

Power that Information Technology opens up in Information Technology-led organizational - Essay Example The rise of the discipline of statistics was an outcome of the will of the state to get knowledge of the population and its tendencies such as mortality, health, work or life styles and to control it better. To discuss how information technology has opened up the power and knowledge to information technology companies, the cases on the learning process and Business process reengineering and Enterprise Resource Process will be evaluated (Hammer and Champy (2001, p.39). Hammer and Champy (2001, p.89) state that learning process is a process of knowledge conversion, and it involves four modes. The assumption that knowledge is created through the relations between inferred and clear knowledge enables us to categorize the four modes: from tacit knowledge to tacit knowledge known as socialization, from tacit knowledge to explicit knowledge called externalization, from explicit knowledge to explicit knowledge known as combination and lastly from explicit knowledge to tacit knowledge also re ferred to as internalization. Socialization acts as a connection with the theories of group processes and culture of the organization. Combination entails processing of information while internalization is related to learning in organizations. Externalization is, however, neglected and has not closely been considered in many cases. Socialization is a process of experience sharing thus, creation of inferred knowledge such as mental modes, which are shared, and technical skills. Someone can acquire inferred knowledge from others directly without involvement of language. An outstanding example being that of apprentices who normally work beside their masters and learn craftsmanship, not by any mode of conversation but rather through observation, imitation, and practice. All that somebody requires to acquire is knowledge and experience (Hammer and Champy, 2001, p.103). According to Hammer and Champy (2001, p.103), experiences helps one by, projecting him into another individual’s thinking process and gain something. For example, Matsushita Electric industrial Company in Japan, a major problem in developing an automatic bread making machine in the late 1980s at the Osaka based Company concentrated on mechanizing the process of dough-kneading, which is essentially inferred knowledge processed by master bakers. Socialization also occurs between product developers and customers. Interactions of customers with product developers and after market introductions are, in, fact, a never ending process of sharing inferred knowledge and idea creation for improvement. Hammer and Champy (2001, p.100) argues that externalization such as from tacit to tacit to explicit is a process of articulating tacit knowledge into clear concepts. It is a typical knowledge creation process in that inferred knowledge becomes clear, taking the figures of metaphors, analogies, concepts, hypotheses, or models. By conceptualizing a figure, we express its essence mostly in language writing in an act of converting inferred knowledge into achievable knowledge. Words are often inadequate, insufficient and inconsistent. Such variations and breaks between figures and expressions, nevertheless, assist in promoting expression and interaction between individuals. Knowledge conversion of externalization mode is typically seen in the action of creation of concepts and is triggered by dialogue (Hammer and Cham

St. Augustines Views on Sin Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

St. Augustines Views on Sin - Essay Example 214)Regarding sin, In Chapter 11 of Book One of Of Sin and Merit, Augustine goes into detail of describing his views on sin. The title of this particular chapter is "Distinction Between Actual and Original Sin." He says: Obviously Augustine believes that through one man's sin, sin has entered the world and it has brought sin upon the entire human race. He makes it clear that he thinks the language is clear as well. Augustine elaborates further upon his view of sin, and how Christ plays a role in that worldview. It also talks about some of the benefits Christians have: Augustine is talking about some very specific positives here about being a Christian that don't have to do with sin except indirectly: that they have a secret communion with Christ; that they are blessed, justified, and have a spiritual grace accorded to them (Knight, 2008, pp. 1). Augustine, first as a Manichean and then as a Christian bishop, had some very interesting ideas about sin. First his notions of sin probably leaned toward good and evil. His later opinions would later be shaped into the doctrine we now have on original sin.

Comparative Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Comparative Culture - Essay Example As Corrigan et al. (2003) suggest, one of the founding principles of this Constitution is that there will be no official state religion. The first amendment to the Constitution clearly states "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof . . . ". Thus there is no official "American" religion, nor can the practice of any religion be banned. While more than 80% of the American population profess to be Christian, there are literally hundreds of religions practices freely in America (Corrigan, 2003). While many Americans accept religious belief as a guiding precept within their lives there is, in general, a great deal of tolerance regarding the practice of opposing beliefs. America was in part founded and populated by successive groups of people who were escaping religious persecution in their home countries, and thus tolerance is ingrained within even the most devout believers of one faith or another (Shea, 2003). In contrast, more than 95% of Iraqis are Muslim. This figure alone might suggest that religion could be used as a unifying force within a country that appears on the surface to be hopelessly fragmented. Unfortunately this is not the case. Iraq is divided between three different religious blocs: the Sunni, the Shia and the Kurds. For many years the mutual antipathy between these three groups was kept essentially frozen by the dictatorial, brutal regime of Sadaam Hussein. This situation has changed with the American invasion of Iraq and the subsequent fragmentation of the country into rival factions, often based upon religion. Thus many Iraqis feel more allegiance to their religious group than they do to the country of Iraq. They feel Sunni, Shia or Kurd in a deeper way than they identify themselves as Iraqi. The Sunni were in the minority, but were privileged with this Hussein regime as he was a Sunni. The Sunni now find themselves virtually powerless (Algar, 2004). The Shia enjoy a majority position as far as numbers and have a number of charismatic religious leaders, but they are torn by internal strife. Thus many Iraqis essentially want a secular society based upon some version of Western democracy, while the more theocratic elements in all three of the major groups would like to see a theocracy built up. In many ways religion in Iraq is presently being used, both intentionally and unintentionally, as a catalyst for violence. Al Quaida deliberately uses its supposed fight for Muslim values against the West as a potent recruiting tool for new fighters. Both Sunni and Shia forces have killed one another in the name of defending their own particular brand of Islam. The Kurds seek independence at least partially based upon religious difference. To conclude, religion is an important aspect of life in both America and Iraq. But because the one is a stable, powerful country and the other one a region essentially on the brink of civil war, the comparison ends there. __________________________________________ Works Cited Algar, Hamid. Religion and Politics in Iraq: Shiite Clerics Between Quietism and Resiustance. Pustaka, New York: 2004. Corrigan, John. Hudson, Winthrop. Religion in America. Prentice-Hall, New